Posted: 03/28/2008
Application Due: 05/15/2008
Type: Full Time


http://www.higheredjobs.com/state/details.cfm?JobCode=175304083/


The Plant Science Department at South Dakota State University invites applications for a 10 month (2 month additional salary to be renewed annually for 5 years) tenure-track faculty position (50% research, 40% teaching, and 10% extension) in the area of alternative agricultural systems. The incumbent would be expected to develop a nationally recognized research and teaching program in alternative agricultural systems, such as sustainable/organic agricultural systems, that emphasizes principles of soil chemistry/fertility, agronomy, biology, ecology, and environmental stewardship in relation to agricultural production systems in South Dakota. The incumbent would develop non-chemical/sustainable solutions that benefit both alternative and traditional agricultural producers. Development of collaborative relationships with faculty in the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences is expected.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Major responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to: developing a nationally recognized and extramurally funded, research program in alternative agricultural systems; publishing results of research projects in peer-reviewed journals; developing courses and providing leadership in alternative agricultural systems academic programs that can be delivered via the classroom, and/or internet; assisting with undergraduate soils and crops courses; supporting efforts in student advising, mentoring, and retention; assisting extension in the area of alternative agricultural systems; developing collaborative projects with other research, extension, and teaching personnel at state, regional, and national levels; participating in professional, university, college, and departmental activities and committees.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Applicants must have a Ph.D. in soil science, agronomy, or a related field. A sound understanding of alternative agricultural systems is essential along with the ability to conduct team-oriented, collaborative research. Demonstrated ability to conduct and publish research findings is essential. A strong desire and ability to effectively teach and help develop undergraduate curricula in alternative agricultural systems and the departmental M.S. and Ph.D. programs is necessary. Effective communication to professional, stakeholder, and student audiences is required.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Desired qualifications include: a clear understanding of diverse cropping systems in the northern Great Plains; experience with organic agricultural systems; ability to secure extramural funding to support the research program; willingness to train graduate and undergraduate students.

UNIVERSITY/COMMUNITY:
SDSU is a land grant institution and the state's largest institution of higher education with an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The Plant Science Department at South Dakota State University is comprised of faculty, staff and graduate students in the areas of Crop Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Soil/Water Science, and Weed Science. The department has a long history of providing quality teaching, research, extension and technical service programs to students and clientele throughout the state, region and nation.

SDSU is located in Brookings, South Dakota, a community of approximately 17,500 near the east central border of South Dakota on Interstate 29. The city has an excellent K-12 education system, is accessible to major medical facilities, has an active cultural and social environment, and has numerous lakes and parks within driving distance. It is 50 miles north of Sioux Falls, a city of 150,000.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 15, 2008 or until a suitable candidate is identified.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on "apply for this posting." The system will guide you through the electronic application form. The employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, resume, and reference page. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

For questions about the position, contact Dr. Vance Owens at 605-688-6088 or vance.owens@sdstate.edu.

Application Information

Contact:	Dr. Vance Owens Plant Science South Dakota State University
Phone:	605-688-6088
TDD:	605-688-4394
Online App. Form:	http://yourfuture.sdbor.edu